5 Natural Ways to Treat Itchy Insect Bites

I can't say I was particularly surprised to hear the latest research on over-the-counter insect bite ointments and creams: Most of them don't work. I wasn't surprised because as someone who's super-allergic to mosquito bites, I've tried pretty much every anti-itch/pain/swelling product out there — and the amount of "relief" they offer is, well, not much of a relief.

I know this is dismal news for my fellow mosquito magnets, but don't despair!

Because I have, over the years, discovered a few remedies that really do help soothe the sting.

But you probably won't find any of them at the pharmacy …

Personally, I've had more luck at the grocery store. Some of these may sound weird, but trust me — you won't care how weird they are when that nasty welt on your leg finally stops itching!

1. Place cold cucumber skins on bites to soothe the burn

2. Honey is a natural antibiotic — apply topically to bites (but don't leave it on and go outside, unless you want a swarm of bees after you!)

3. Use a cotton ball to apply tea tree oil every 2 to 3 hours (my personal favorite! Kind of stinky, but so effective).

4. Cut a knob of garlic in half and rub it on the bite area (again, stinky — but so effective for getting rid of the itch!)

5. Lime juice or lemon juice are better than nothing, especially if you're at a picnic or barbecue and those are all you have handy

Have you found anything that helps to stop the itch of insect bites?

Image via Colonel Wildturkey/Flickr